Jayne’s dreams get a boost

Oct 22 2008 by Donald Morton, Stirling Observer Wednesday

STIRLING University high jump and triple jump star Jayne Nisbet insists her selection for the Lloyds TSB Local Heroes scheme is already enhancing her dream of emulating Olympic hero Germaine Mason at London 2012.

The 20 year-old is one of 250 emerging Brits who will receive £100 each year in the run up to London 2012– plugging a financial gap as Nisbet is yet to achieve World Class lottery funding.

The student will also benefit from the knowhow of Lloyds TSB Local Hero mentors including former Olympic triple-jump champion Jonathan Edwards while she has already put the cash to good use getting to and from her numerous international tournaments.

And after watching Mason win silver in Beijing as Team GB finished fourth on the medal table with 19 golds, Jayne is already aiming to follow in the 25 year-old’s footsteps.

“I’ve had a really good year this year with my high jump and a bit of a tricky one with the triple jump,” said Nisbet, who competes for Edinburgh Athletics Club.

“The money has been amazing just for the way it has covered my travelling expenses.”

Nisbet – who is studying Sports Studies – has already underlined her potential, winning the British University Championships at Bedford in May and the Scottish U23 Championships in Grangemouth in June.

And former Olympic and World Champion Edwards, who still holds the triple jump world record, is predicting a golden future for her.

“There is a lot of money in sport now through the lottery but Jayne is not quite good enough just yet to take advantage,” said Edwards.

“She still makes a huge commitment in time and money in order to do what she does and she doesn’t get a lot back. This relieves pressure and gives her a boost.”

Lloyds TSB is providing up to £1,000 to 250 emerging young sportspeople identified each year across Britain, in the run up to London 2012.